Det Sgt Gary Bedi, from West Midlands Police, said the woman - who suffered "life-changing injuries", including a broken spine and ankle - was "lucky to be alive" after the attack.

"Bills has a history of domestic violence and I am relieved that the court has given him a severe sentence," he said.

"[The woman] continues to suffer problems as a result of the injuries."

Correction 4 August 2016: This story has been amended to reflect that Bills was found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm, attempted wounding and breaching a restraining order and not, as incorrectly stated, attempted murder, wounding or affray.